The historic town of Warwick is best known for its magnificent castle, home to generations of the all-powerful Earls of Warwick, including the 13th Earl, executioner of Joan of Arc. A magnificent fortress towering over the banks of the River Avon, on a site first fortified by William the Conqueror in 1068, Warwick Castle is quite simply one of the finest medieval castle in England surrounded by stories and intrigue which make it a popular attraction.
There is also much to explore in Warwick itself plus a wealth of antique and gift shops.
Kenilworth, just north of Warwick, has an excellent choice of restaurants and small shops. It too has a castle – described as England's most romantic ruin as it was here that Queen Elizabeth I was lavishly entertained by her favourite, Robert Dudley.
Within easy reach of both Warwick and Kenilworth lies the fashionable town of Royal Leamington Spa. The range and quality of shops is excellent. Mmake sure you visit the Royal Pump Rooms to taste the spa water which made this town famous.
The greenest of manufacturing cities, Coventry lies at the crossroads of England, buttressed by the two great medieval castles of Warwick and Kenilworth and surrounded by the rich farming landscapes of Warwickshire, Shakespeare's country.
Any place that can count St George the dragon slayer, fair Lady Godiva and jet pioneer Frank Whittle as locals must have quite a story to tell. And Coventry's is like no other. Six hundred years ago it ranked fourth among England's cities and it still possesses the monuments of that glorious past – one of the country's finest medieval guildhalls, almshouses and monastic foundations, timber-framed shops and pubs. But this is not a place that likes to linger over the past. Birthplace of the motor industry in Britain, it has always moved with the times, pioneering many things, from traffic-free shopping precincts to Basil Spence's extraordinary cathedral, a treasure house of modern British art as well as a symbol of international reconciliation.
Beautifully situated on the River Avon, Stratford has a number of attractions linked to its famous son. Discover the town in which Shakespeare was born and grew up, where he gained inspiration for his work and even where he used to poach deer! A stroll along the River Avon will lead you to Holy Trinity Church – Shakespeare's final resting place. Stratford has many other attractions including Guide Friday, The Butterfly Farm and Cox's Yard.
For the visitor, the area offers the best of town and country – not one but two world renowned motor museums, Britain's national organic garden and a living Roman fort, canals and country churches, great houses and battlefields. And it has the range of accommodation to match, from elegant country hotels to homely guesthouses.
The surrounding countryside has six fascinating and historical National Trust houses and gardens, including Hidcote Manor and Charlecote Park, with their recent restoration work and exciting new discoveries.